Montgomery Village /USA: The Mangalorean Association DC/MD/VA, USA celebrated the feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, traditionally called ‘Monthi Fest’ at 20125 Arrowhead Road, Montgomery Village, Maryland on Sunday September 20.

Over 100 people including children from Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia joined in the celebration. The event started with showering of flowers to Mother Mary by children who dressed themselves in their best Indian attire. Everyone joined the choir in singing ‘Moriyek Hogolsiyan’. The Mass was celebrated by Fr Anil Gonsalves and Fr Russel Raj who brought back fond memories of the true meaning of “Monthi Fest”. The members and children took active part in the service with readings and responsorial psalms, with the choir singing both in Konkani and English.

After the Mass, blessed paddy in roce was served to all the guests. Juliet Vaz, the new president of the Mangalorean Association welcomed everyone. She introduced the new committee, thanked the outgoing committee members and also spoke about the upcoming Christmas event, scheduled for December 5th, 2015.

Later, the attendees were greeted to a traditional Mangalorean vegetarian lunch prepared by the committee members. Novem Jevon was comprised of a spread of 7 dishes that was sumptuous and enjoyable. The menu included Bhendi, Cabbage, Channa, Karam, Moong, Sambar and Sango. This was followed by delicious vorn which was enjoyed by all.

More information about the association, photos, upcoming events and details about joining the association are available at https://www.facebook.com/mangaloreandcmdva or http://www.mangaloreanassociation.org/. For additional details or in case of questions, please send an email to president@mangaloreanassociation.org